In Italian, Riise states that he is a Fulham player but that Roma, the club, and fans are always in his heart and doesn’t know what the future holds for him.

Is there any validity to this rumor? Maybe. Riise is certainly past his better years of performing but you’d be hard pressed to find a better dressing room presence than John. His work ethic could rub off on somebody like Dodo and could help the youngster reach new heights. Riise would be available on a free transfer after next season. While wages wouldn’t be the problem, one has to wonder if Riise would be comfortable with a part-time role with Roma.

Friendly: Roma 1-1 Bursapor

Roma drew 1-1 with Bursapor in yesterday’s friendly. Pablo Osvaldo scored Roma’s only goal via rigore. Rudi Garcia tinkered with both a 4-3-3 and a 4-2-3-1 formation. It is unclear which formation the Frenchman prefers, but one thing is certain: Totti will be relied upon heavily (again). Il Capitano played on the left wing and also in the center of the attacking midfielders in the 3 man midfield in the 4-2-3-1; like last season, Totti looks incredibly fit and healthy and should be expected to contribute mightily.

Fringe 1st team players Alessandro Crescenzi and Gianluca Caprari looked lively in the friendly. The two young Italians have spent the last two seasons out on loan at Novara and Pescara, respectively. They both have incredible potential and their performance in the pre-season is especially important, as Garcia must decide if he wants to send the youngsters out on loan or keep them on the first team.